Why Selling Without an Agent Can Cost You More Than You Think

by Tammi Freund

 

Why Selling Without an Agent Can Cost You More Than You Think

Cutting out the agent might seem like a smart way to save when you sell your house.
But here’s the hard truth: last year, homes sold with an agent went for almost 15% more than those sold without one.

That’s not pocket change—that’s potentially tens of thousands of dollars left on the table. And with more homes hitting the market right now, selling on your own could cost you far more than you expect.


This Isn’t the Market for DIY Selling

A few years ago, you might’ve gotten away with a simple For Sale By Owner (FSBO) sign in your yard, navigating the process on your own.

Back then, homes were flying off the market and buyers were making aggressive offers to win. But today’s reality is different:

  • Inventory levels are the highest we’ve seen in years

  • Buyers have more choices and are becoming more selective

  • A yard sign and a few iPhone photos just won’t cut it anymore

According to Realtor.com, the number of listings in July was the highest since 2019. That means more competition for you—and more pressure to make your home stand out in price, condition, marketing, and presentation.


More Inventory = More Competition

When buyers have options, they compare everything: price, photos, location, updates, and even the quality of your listing description.

To compete in today’s market, you need:

  • A data-driven pricing strategy

  • Expert prep work to make your home shine

  • Professional-quality photography and marketing

  • Negotiation skills that protect your bottom line

If you’re not bringing all that to the table, the difference will likely show up in your final sale price.


More Sellers Are Turning to the Pros

The latest data from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows fewer homeowners are attempting FSBO—and for good reason.

According to Zillow:

  • 21% of FSBO sellers ended up hiring an agent anyway after struggling to sell on their own

These sellers often realize too late that without the right expertise, their home sits longer, attracts fewer buyers, and sells for less than it could have.


What You Get When You Work With The Freund Group at FIV Realty

We don’t just list homes—we create a strategic marketing plan tailored to your property to ensure it sells for top dollar in the shortest amount of time possible.

Here’s what you get when you work with us:

  • Accurate pricing backed by in-depth market analysis

  • Home staging and presentation guidance to make your home shine online and in person

  • Professional marketing with wide-reaching exposure, including social media, video, and our private database of 13,000+ buyers

  • Expert negotiation to protect your equity and maximize your profit

  • Local market knowledge that helps your home stand out against the competition


Bottom Line

In a market with more listings and choosier buyers, FSBO isn’t the money-saver it used to be. Many sellers who start on their own end up hiring an agent—so why not start with the best?

šŸ’” If you want your home sold for the highest price, in the least amount of time, and with the least amount of stress—The Freund Group at FIV Realty is ready to make it happen.

šŸ“² Call or text us today or message us here to get your free, no-obligation home value assessment.
Let’s sell your home the smart way—and put more money in your pocket.

GET MORE INFORMATION

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Tammi Freund

+1(281) 686-4109

tammi@freundgroup.com